The 8 Most Amazing Peaks around Exmoor

Exmoor offers several prominent peaks. Among the most popular are Dunkery Beacon Summit, the highest point in Somerset with panoramic views; Selworthy Beacon, known for its coastal views towards Wales; and Butter Hill Summit, which features some of England's highest cliffs and views of Lynton and Lynmouth.

For truly expansive views, Dunkery Beacon Summit is unparalleled. On a clear day, you can see up to 86 miles, encompassing the Bristol Channel, Wales, Dartmoor, and the Quantock Hills. Selworthy Beacon also provides amazing coastal views and inland over Exmoor National Park, while Winsford Hill Summit Monument offers epic vistas across the moorland.

Yes, Exmoor's peaks are rich in history. Dunkery Beacon Summit is marked by ancient burial mounds. Nearby, Great Rowbarrow Cairn is a significant Bronze Age burial site. Haddon Hill also has historical significance, having housed a U.S. Army military camp during World War II.

While many walks on Exmoor can be challenging, Haddon Hill is easily accessible from Bury or a nearby parking area, making it a convenient option for families seeking scenic vistas without an overly strenuous climb. For more general easy hiking options around the region, you can explore the Easy hikes around Exmoor guide.

Exmoor's peaks showcase diverse natural beauty. You'll find vast moorland often covered in heather, dramatic coastal cliffs like those near Little Hangman and Great Hangman, and unique prehistoric rock formations at the Valley of Rocks. Keep an eye out for Exmoor ponies, often spotted on the way to summits like Dunkery Beacon Summit, and wild goats at the Valley of Rocks.

Beyond hiking, Exmoor offers a range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, with options like the 'Chains Barrow and Pinkery Pond loop' or the 'Simonsbath Village – Wheal Eliza mine ruins loop' detailed in the Running Trails around Exmoor guide. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes such as the 'Dunkery Beacon Summit loop' available in the Gravel biking around Exmoor guide.

For beginners, routes that offer shorter distances or less elevation gain are ideal. While specific 'beginner mountain trails' aren't always explicitly marked, you can often find easier approaches to peaks like Haddon Hill. Consider exploring the Easy hikes around Exmoor guide for routes with lower difficulty ratings, which can be a good starting point for experiencing the region's elevated landscapes.

Exmoor's peaks offer beauty year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, summer provides longer daylight hours for exploration, and autumn transforms the moorland with rich heather colors. Even in winter, the atmospheric scenery can be stunning, though weather conditions require more preparation. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.

There is a dedicated car park for Dunkery Beacon Summit, which allows for a shorter, steeper climb or a longer walk to the summit. This makes it convenient for visitors looking to access Exmoor's highest point.

While popular spots like Dunkery Beacon Summit can attract visitors, Exmoor is vast. To find less crowded experiences, consider exploring areas like Haddon Hill, which is easily accessible but often quieter, or seeking out trails in less frequented parts of the National Park. Early mornings or weekdays can also offer a more solitary experience on any trail.

Exmoor's coastal hills, such as Little Hangman and Great Hangman, are unique for having some of the highest coastline in mainland Britain. Great Hangman, for example, reaches 318 meters with a dramatic 250-meter cliff face. These areas provide breathtaking views where the moorland meets the sea, offering rugged rock formations and impressive sea views, particularly along the South West Coast Path.

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular panoramic views from points like Dunkery Beacon Summit and Selworthy Beacon. The sense of achievement from reaching a summit, the diverse landscapes ranging from heather-clad moorland to dramatic coastlines, and the rich historical elements like ancient burial cairns are also highly valued. Many appreciate the opportunity for 'head-clearer' walks and experiencing the natural beauty regardless of the weather.